The Relationship between “Religion” and “the Meaning of Life” and “Existential Pains”

In this paper, we examine descriptively and analytically William James’ view of the relation between religion and the meaning of life and existential pains. As a result, the article is made of two parts. In part one, we describe James’ view to religion and its relationship with the meaning of life and existential pains; and in part two, we try to analyze and criticize James’ view to religion and its relationship with the meaning of life and existential pains. In James’ view, the essence of religion is in fact the personal experiences which are a kind of emotion, and the religious doctrines and rites are outer structures of religion. In his opinion, the personal relationship with the Divine Act causes mental calmness and the decrease in any fear of death and, in consequence, leads to the meaningfulness of life. To criticize James’ views, we examined his perception of the meaning of life and existential pains and its relation with religion, and we put forth some of its faults.